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Groundbreaking guide challenges stereotypes of Indigenous Australia

August 2001 - Lonely Planet - Media Release - "There's more to being an Aborigine than playing the didjeridu and posing in a barren landscape, spear in hand, before a mystical dusk backdrop"Contributing author Bryan Andy, p122 Aboriginal Australia & the Torres Strait Islands, Lonely Planet 2001.

Lonely Planet has published a unique guide to Indigenous Australia, the first mainstream travel book entirely dedicated to the roots and ancestors of the land. It is a side most visitors have no greater understanding of than the usual stereotypes. A major three-year project, it has harnessed the talents of new and established Aboriginal writers, designers and photographers, working with Lonely Planet's existing in-house team.

Responding to an advertisement placed in Australia's national Indigenous newspaper The Koori Mail (the major voice of the Aboriginal community), 71 people took part in the project, of whom 51 were Indigenous Australians. Many were trained by Lonely Planet for specific areas of producing the guidebook; writing, editing, designing, and photography.

Coordinating author Sarina Singh, who trained the youngest author bryan Andy during the project, said;

"This guide is the result of extensive consultation and involvement with the Indigenous community. We have not knowingly included anything that indigenous owners did not want included. The authors consulted and followed the advice of Elders, local councils and communities when gathering information."

The book was produced along the guidelines of all Lonely Planet titles; All travel information in the book was independently researched by the authors and tour recommendations based on their findings only. From history to contemporary culture, dozens of personal anecdotes, stories and experiences overwhelmingly illustrate the diversity of Aboriginal Australia.

Research shows that between 85 and 95% of international visitors to Australia want to experience Aboriginal tourism on subsequent visits to Australia (Australian Tourist Commission figures) and yet few experience much of it on a typical visit or have little idea of how to do so responsibly. At the same time, unemployment rates for Indigenous Australians is currently three times the national average of all Australians (p45).

Sarina Singh said; "Lonely Planet wants the tourism dollars to be directed to the appropriate indigenous organisations. At its best, tourism not only brings income and employment, it also helps to protect the culture, since it allows Aborigines to provide access to their sites and to interpret them. "

A special section in the guide features buying indigenous art and artefacts, giving tips on where to go and what to look for (p86). Managing Director of the ATC, Ken Boundy said; "Interest in Aboriginal Tourism is soaring, particularly following the Sydney Olympic Games with Aboriginal themes in the opening and closing ceremonies and Cathy Freeman's gold medal race receiving global media attention. This guide provides readers with a greater understanding of Aboriginal culture in Australia." Some tips on responsible tourism and getting the most out of Indigenous Australia;·

• Try to familiarise yourself with Indigenous histories and cultural practices prior to your trip (p119).
• Seek out local information on arrival by contacting Indigenous bodies (p119)
• Be aware that when visiting some remote communities, it may be important to dress modestly (p123)
• Always ask permission before photographing or videoing a person, group or residence (p123).
• Act naturally and with a respect for privacy (p118).
• Be aware that in many indigenous communities, the consumption or possession of alcohol is banned (p125).

Simon Westcott, Lonely Planet's Global Publisher said; "This guide was a challenging publishing exercise for us. As a practical guide to Aboriginal Australia and the Torres Strait Islands, the book is unprecedented in both its scope and its aims.

The European Network for Indigenous Australian Rights said;

"We congratulate Lonely Planet for an innovative and well-researched guide. It's a great step forward in the recognition of Aboriginal contribution to tourism and the Australian economy."

Further information about Lonely Planet guidebooks is available on our 2000 page award winning, interactive website. You can check out all the travel news, facts and maps or ask the opinion of other travellers on http://www.lonelyplanet.com/

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